“I was on the red carpet last year promoting ‘Long Song Away,’ and to fast forward to this year and to be nominated for “Best New Artist,” it’s a blessing,” Ross tells Motown. “This nomination, win or lose, is a true testament of progression and growth.”

The Washington, D.C. native released his debut album, ‘The Awakening’ in 2017 with lead singles “Be Great,” featuring label mate Chaz French and “Long Song Away,” which reached #1 on the Billboard Adult R&B charts in the spring.

Ross headlined his first tour this spring, and released the EP ‘Drive’ in September with the focus track “Prototype,” a remake of the classic 2003 Outkast ballad.